Gimme 5 – Stories That Parents Should Know (But May Have Missed)

Here are some of the big stories that parents may have missed this week.

St. Louis-based 11-year-old starts book club

Sidney Keys III, an 11-year-old from St. Louis, was inspired to start a book club by the EyeSeeMe, a local bookstore that specializes in African-American culture. Sidney’s mom took him to the store because he loves to read. Sidney started “Books n Bros” to encourage literacy among his peers and to raise awareness of African-American literature. The book club has read Hidden Figures and Danny Dollar. After 7 months, Books n Bros already has more than 30 members! Sidney says he especially enjoys his time with his book club friends, “What makes me really happy is seeing the happy faces of all my members.” (CNN)

Parenting burnout is real

A new study shows that moms and dads can “burn out” on parenting, much like professionals can experience burnout on their jobs. While women have entered the workforce in higher numbers and may spend less time at home, both parents are expected to do more for their children. The study measured 3 symptoms of burnout — exhaustion, inefficacy, and detachment — and found that parents of both genders showed signs at least once a week. Parental burnout correlates to long-term health issues like depression and addiction. (NY Mag)

Nicole Edwards, of Georgia, was shocked to learn that her 14-year-old daughter was awarded a “Most Likely To Not Pay Attention” end-of-year trophy this week. Edwards’ daughter has been diagnosed with ADHD. Edwards said she felt the award was “humiliating” for her daughter. The two teachers involved will not be returning to the school district next year, according to Rockdale County Public Schools. According to Edwards, her daughter is well “but as a mother, she is deeply hurt by what happened.” (Fox Houston)

Grandparents’ outdated parenting techniques may put children at risk

The number of grandparents raising children has increased in recent years. While most outdated parenting myths are harmless, a few still pose a threat to children. For example, some grandparents believe that placing a child in an ice bath will help bring down a fever (a tepid bath is much healthier, an ice bath poses a risk of hypothermia). Another important point — that babies should be put to sleep on their backs and not on their stomachs or sides — was a recommendation made in recent years that grandparents may be unaware of. Grandparents may be unknowingly placing their grandchildren at risk. Dr. Andrew Adesman of Cohen Children’s Medical Center says, “Grandparents in some ways may have wisdom of the ages but on the other hand, some parenting recommendations have changed in recent years.” He advises following pediatricians updated recommendations. (CBS)

Expert recommends against foreign vacations for young children

Child psychologist Oliver James advises parents to keep vacations local for young children, especially those still under five. “Home-based holidays are what most children really want,” he says. According to James, children prefer familiarity to excitement. From the ages of five to ten, children become attached to specific places and will most enjoy returning to these places during their summer vacations. When kids enter their teen years, they develop a more adventurous attitude and will enjoy overseas travel more. However you and your children choose to spend your vacation, enjoy your time off from work! (Telegraph)